Former NSIB DG Urges Aviation Stakeholders to Adopt New Technology Without Dropping Core Safety Practices

A former head of Nigeria’s accident investigation bureau is asking aviation stakeholders to bring in new equipment and software without letting go of the day-to-day checks and communication that keep flights safe.

Akin Olateru, former Director-General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and Chairman of OmniBlu Aviation Services, made the call while chairing the second induction ceremony of the Nigeria Aviation Hall of Fame in Lagos. He said airlines are now using tools like biometric boarding, electronic flight bags and emissions-tracking software, while passengers expect quicker rebooking during delays and clearer updates. At the same time, fuel costs and environmental reporting requirements are forcing operators to take efficiency and sustainability seriously.

“The aviation industry is evolving rapidly. New technologies, changing passenger expectations, sustainability concerns and emerging opportunities are transforming the way we think about air transportation,” Olateru said.

He added: “In this changing environment, the values represented by today’s inductees, professionalism, leadership, innovation and service remain as important as ever.”

Olateru said a single flight depends on pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, cabin crew, airport staff, regulators, entrepreneurs and technicians. These people often work behind the scenes, but their decisions determine whether a departure is safe or whether a small problem turns into a serious incident.

The ceremony honoured 18 Nigerians from regulation, administration, flight operations, engineering and aviation leadership. Olateru described the induction as more than a plaque handover. He said it acknowledges that “excellence matters, service matters, integrity matters, and legacy matters.” He also urged younger aviation workers to study the careers of the inductees, noting that meaningful progress comes from knowledge, discipline, repeated training and a commitment to safety rather than isolated dramatic events.

The event’s theme was “The Next Generation of Aviation Leaders: Talent, Technology and Global Competitiveness.”

Wole Shadare, Co-Convener of the Nigeria Aviation Hall of Fame, said an independent panel selected the 18 inductees. Some were recognised posthumously, with family members attending the ceremony to collect the honour. Shadare said the initiative exists to preserve records of aviation pioneers so the industry does not lose the practical lessons that can guide future professionals.

“This induction is not merely an award. It is an eternal roll call of honour. Your names, achievements and legacies are forever enshrined in the history of Nigerian aerospace,” Shadare said.